Ajman Free Zone

Ajman-Free-Zone-Licence

Overview of Ajman Free Zone for Business Setup

Ajman Free Zone (AFZA) is one of the UAE oldest and most cost-efficient free zones, established in 1988 to support business innovation and investment. Its prime Location near Ajman Port and seamless access to major airports and highways make it a top destination for entrepreneurs looking for quick and flexible business solutions. Form your company in the AFZA Free Zone with expert support, affordable licensing, and strategic UAE location.

What You Need to Know About Ajman Free Zone (AFZA)

AFZA, established in 1988, is one of the most cost-effective and strategically located free zones in the UAE. It supports businesses with 100% foreign ownership, no income or corporate tax, and complete repatriation of profits. It caters to trading, manufacturing, service, and e-commerce businesses.

Popular zones in the region include Ajman Free Zone and Ajman Media City Free Zone. Ajman NuVentures Centre Free Zone (ANCFZ) Both offer a simplified company setup process and investor-friendly regulations.

Key Benefits of Starting Your Business in Ajman Free Zone

  • Full foreign ownership allowed
  • No corporate or personal income tax
  • Low-cost license and setup options
  • Convenient location near Dubai and Sharjah
  • Easy import and export with no currency limits
  • Quick company registration process
  • Modern facilities and flexible office spaces
  • Help with visa and immigration services
  • Active business community with networking chances

Types of Licenses Available for Your Business in Ajman

The Free Zone offers different types of licenses for different kinds of work. These include Trading Licenses for buying and selling goods, Service Licenses for providing services, Industrial Licenses for making or assembling products, E-Commerce Licenses for online business, and Offshore Licenses for companies outside the UAE. Each license fits the basic needs of different businesses.

1. Trading License

A Trading License in the Free Zone allows companies to buy and sell goods. There are different types based on the number of products you want to trade. A Single Activity Trading License covers one product, while Double and Triple Activity Licenses let you trade in two or three related products. The General Trading License gives the freedom to trade in many types of goods, even if they are not related. This license is popular among importers, exporters, and wholesale traders. All trading licenses come with easy setup steps and 100% foreign ownership.

2. Service License

A Service License in AFZA Free Zone is meant for businesses that provide non-physical services such as consulting, marketing, IT support, or management services. It is suitable for professionals who offer expertise or digital solutions instead of trading or manufacturing. This license allows 100% foreign ownership and has a simple registration process. It also provides access to office and business facilities for service-based companies. Whether you plan to start a digital agency, consultancy, or tech firm, the Service License gives you an easy and affordable way to operate legally in the UAE.

3. Industrial License

An Industrial License in AFZA Free Zone is for companies involved in manufacturing, production, or other industrial work. It allows businesses to use raw materials, assemble products, and carry out industrial activities within the Free Zone. This license is suitable for sectors like textiles, packaging, food processing, and machinery. With access to warehouses, industrial land, and transport support, the Industrial License helps manufacturers reach both local and international markets easily.

4. E-Commerce License

An E-Commerce License in AFZA Free Zone is for businesses that sell products or provide services online. It covers activities through websites, mobile apps, and social media platforms. This license is suitable for online stores, drop-shipping businesses, and digital service providers. It gives entrepreneurs a simple and legal way to run their online business in the UAE and trade with customers worldwide.

5. Offshore License

Offshore License – The Ajman Offshore License is best for businesses that work internationally without operating inside the UAE. It’s often used for holding companies, asset protection, international trade, and consultancy. This license allows 100% foreign ownership, no corporate or personal taxes, and keeps ownership details private. Offshore companies cannot have physical offices or apply for visas but can use a UAE business address and access international banking. It’s an affordable option for global entrepreneurs and investors who want a trusted UAE business presence.

Types of Companies Allowed in Ajman Free Zone

AFZA offers different types of business setups, including single-owner companies, businesses with partners, and branches of local or international companies.

  1. Free Zone Establishment (FZE) – Single Owner:A Free Zone Establishment (FZE) is for one person or company that wants to fully own a business. It allows one shareholder to start a legal company in the free zone with 100% ownership. The owner has limited liability, meaning their personal assets are protected. This setup is best for freelancers, consultants, and small business owners who want full control of their company while enjoying tax benefits and easy rules in the UAE.
  2. Free Zone Company (FZC) – Multiple Owners:A Free Zone Company (FZC) is for two or more owners, who can be individuals or companies. It allows them to share ownership and manage the business together within the free zone. This setup is good for startups, partnerships, or growing companies. FZCs offer 100% foreign ownership, tax-free benefits, and the freedom to repatriate profits easily.
  3. Branch of a Local Company:A Branch of a Local Company allows a UAE mainland business to open a branch in the free zone. It works under the same name and business license as the main company. The branch enjoys free zone benefits like full foreign ownership, no import or export tax, and an easy setup process while keeping its main registration with the Department of Economic Development (DED).
  4. Branch of a Foreign Company:A Branch of a Foreign Company allows an international business to open an office in the UAE free zone without forming a new company. It operates under the same name and activities as the parent company and remains fully owned by it. This setup gives access to the UAE market with benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, no corporate or income tax, and easy international operations.

Required Documents for Setting Up Your Business

To start a company in Ajman Free Zone, specific documents are needed depending on the business type. Whether you’re forming a new company or opening a branch, providing accurate and complete documentation ensures a smooth setup process.

1. New Company Setup

Three company name choices

  • Valid passport (6 months minimum)
  • Passport-sized photo (white background)
  • No Objection Certificate (UAE residents)
  • Business plan (for service or industrial license)

2. Branch of Local Company

  • Original License &
  • Chamber of Commerce Certificate
  • Commercial Registration
  • Passport + photo of owner
  • Business plan if applicable

3. Branch of Foreign Company

  • MOA, Board Resolution, Power of Attorney
  • Certificate of Incorporation
  • Passport + photo of company representative
  • Feasibility study (if needed)

Office For Business Setup Solutions

  • Smart Desk: For startups, 2 visa quota, fast setup
  • Executive Offices: Up to 5 visas, prime location in Ajman Business Center
  • Warehouses: Starting from 100 sqm, tailored for manufacturing/logistics
  • Industrial Land: Large-scale investment opportunities

Ajman Free Zone License Costs for 2025

License Type Activities Annual Fee (AED)
Trading License Single Activity 11,900
Trading License Two Activities 13,200
Trading License Three Activities 14,500
General Trading License Multiple Categories 17,100
Consultancy License IT, Marketing, Management 14,500
E-Commerce License Online Business Activities 18,000

Visa Options for Business Owners in Ajman

Investor visas are valid for 3 years. Partner, Manager, and Employee visas are valid for 2 years. Visa Service for AFZA

  • Investor Visa Application: AED 2,635
  • Employee Visa Application: AED 2,635
  • Medical + Emirates ID: AED 1,100
  • Investor Security Deposit: AED 2,000 (Refundable)
  • Employee Security Deposit: AED 2,000 + 1 month salary (Refundable)
  • Name Approval: AED 110 | E-Channel: AED 2,100 + 5,100 deposit

Managing Your Business Online with the AFZA Portal

Businesses can manage everything online via the AFZA portal official AFZA Authority website:

  • Renew trade licenses
  • Apply and track visas
  • Download official documents
  • Make payments
  • Receive renewal and update notifications

Explore Other Free Zones in the UAE for Business Opportunities

Start Your Business in Ajman Business Setup Today At Mehar Business Solution LLC, we simplify your company setup process in Ajman Free Zone from start to finish. Whether you’re forming a trading company, a tech startup, or a manufacturing unit, we handle everything from license application to visa processing. Call Us: +971 56 553 9955 Email: info@ajmanbusinesssetup.com Visit Us: Business Village, Block A, Port Saeed, Dubai, UAE Website: ajmanbusinesssetup.com

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Frequently Asked Questions About Setting Up in Ajman

It is a UAE-based free zone offering tax-free business formation with 100% foreign ownership and simplified business regulations.

Trading, Service, Industrial, E-Commerce, and Offshore licenses.

Yes, visa packages are available depending on your office or desk facility and activity type.

Trading, manufacturing, consulting, e-commerce, IT services, media, and more.

Yes, once your company and license are approved, banks in the UAE will allow account opening.

You will need to submit closure documents and clear outstanding dues. Official cancellation is done via AFZA.